![Erika Perkins Dies in Tragic Crash Near Port Orchard [Kitsap County, WA]](https://sweetlaw.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Car-Accident-Laws-1024x576.jpg)
Gig Harbor Woman Dies After Single-Vehicle Crash on State Route 16 in Kitsap County
Kitsap County, WA (October 12, 2025) — A tragic crash near Port Orchard on Thursday afternoon claimed the life of 46-year-old Erika Perkins of Gig Harbor.
According to the Washington State Patrol, a 61-year-old Bremerton man was driving a 2005 Chevrolet Trailblazer westbound on State Route 16 near Mattress Ranch around 2:35 p.m. when he lost control of the vehicle. The SUV veered off the right side of the road and came to rest down an embankment.
Both the driver and his passenger, identified as Erika R. Perkins, were taken to a nearby hospital. Perkins later died from her injuries, while the driver sustained non-life-threatening injuries.
Troopers reported that the driver was not wearing a seatbelt, though Perkins was properly restrained. Investigators determined that distracted driving caused the crash, and charges against the driver are pending. Authorities confirmed that neither drugs nor alcohol played a role in the collision.
Sweet Lawyers extends heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Erika Perkins. Losing a loved one in a preventable crash is devastating, and our team is here to help families seek justice and support during this difficult time.
Finding Strength and Justice After a Tragic Loss
Losing someone you love in a sudden accident is one of life’s most painful experiences. Beyond the heartbreak, families are often left facing emotional, practical, and financial challenges — from medical bills and funeral costs to the loss of companionship and financial support.
In times like these, it’s important to know that you have options. Filing a wrongful death claim can help bring justice to your loved one’s memory and provide much-needed financial support for those left behind.
A wrongful death claim can help families recover compensation for:
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Medical costs from the victim’s final care
- Lost income and future financial support
- Emotional suffering and loss of companionship
This legal process is about more than money — it’s about accountability. Whether the crash was caused by reckless driving, intoxication, or negligence, holding the at-fault party responsible helps ensure that similar tragedies are less likely to happen again.
While no legal action can ever replace the person you’ve lost, seeking justice can bring a sense of closure and peace to grieving families. It’s one way to honor your loved one’s life and legacy.
At Sweet Lawyers, we understand how overwhelming this time can be. Our team of wrongful death and personal injury attorneys has decades of experience helping families find answers, justice, and the financial support they need to move forward.
You don’t have to face this alone. We’ll handle the legal challenges so you can focus on healing and being with those who matter most.
If your loved one lost their life in a car accident, call Sweet Lawyers at (800) 674-7852. for a free, confidential consultation.
You will be provided with compassionate legal support when you need it most.
We’re available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, ready to listen, guide, and fight for the justice your family deserves.

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